A powerful show of community support unfolded in Enniscorthy as crowds gathered for the “Pedal for Pat” cycling fundraiser in memory of the late Pat Kehoe, who passed away on May 4. The event raised an impressive €7,072.47 in aid of Futures in Mind, a mental health charity dedicated to suicide prevention and support services.
Pat Kehoe was remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and a cherished member of the local fitness community. Organised by his children, Racheal and Dylan Owens, the event aimed not only to raise vital funds but also to spark open conversations around mental health—especially men’s mental health, which continues to carry stigma.
Held in a spirit of inclusivity and remembrance, the fundraiser featured stationary spinning bikes, with participants taking turns to ride in tribute to Pat. The event welcomed people of all fitness levels, encouraging attendees to participate in any capacity—whether pedaling, cheering, or simply enjoying the music and company.
A live DJ kept the atmosphere upbeat throughout the day, while refreshments and raffle prizes, generously donated by local businesses, helped keep spirits high. Local dignitaries including Cathaoirleach Aidan Browne and Councillor Jackser Owens also joined the event to show their support.
Futures in Mind, formerly known as Talk to Talk, is a Gorey-based charity committed to raising mental health awareness, offering bereavement support, and breaking down the stigma surrounding suicide. The organisation provides financial, emotional, and educational resources to those in need.
Speaking about the event’s impact, Racheal Owens expressed her heartfelt hope that open discussions about mental health become more normalized—particularly among men.
“We need to keep speaking about mental health and men’s mental health in particular,” she said. “We’re hoping that by having events like this, it becomes less of a taboo topic. If we can prevent just one person from thinking suicide is the only option, or save one family from going through what we’ve experienced, then that’s what truly matters.”
Reflecting on the overwhelming community response, she added:
“Our goal was €500—maybe €1,000 if we were lucky. To have raised over €7,000 is something we can hardly believe. We’re just so thankful and grateful.”
She extended heartfelt thanks on behalf of the family: “We just want to say a massive thank you to everyone who came out to support us. We are overwhelmed by the number of people who showed up in memory of our dad. We can’t believe how generous everyone has been.”
“To everyone who helped us organise the day and made it as special as it was, we can’t thank you enough.”
Online donations to Pedal for Pat remain open until Tuesday, June 3 via iDonate.
